Photo: A24
Release Date: 25/12/2025
Director: Josh Safdie
Cast: Timothee Chalamet, Odessa A’zion, Gwyneth Paltrow. Tyler Okonma, Kevin O’Leary
Runtime: 150 Minutes
Marty Supreme (2025) is a movie that thrives on chaos. Directed by Josh Safdie, it is very fast, loud, and constantly on edge, refusing to settle into any familiar genre. Set in 1950s New York, the film follows Marty Mauser, played by Timothée Chalamet, a wildly ambitious table tennis player who believes he is destined for greatness. What unfolds is less a traditional sports story and more a frantic character study about obsession, ego, and the cost of believing your own hype.
Timothée Chalamet gives one of his most intense and compelling performances to date. His take on Marty is brash, restless, and often uncomfortable to watch, in a way that feels intentional. Chalamet fully commits to the character’s confidence and volatility, making Marty unpredictable but strangely magnetic. Even when the character pushes viewers away, his performance keeps the film moving forward, and it is easy to see why many critics consider this one of Chalamet’s most impressive roles so far.
Odessa A’zion excels in a key supporting role, bringing a calmer yet impactful presence that contrasts sharply with Marty’s relentless drive. Her performance feels grounded and natural, bringing emotional weight to scenes that could otherwise tip into excess. She provides a sense of balance within the film, reminding the audience that not everyone in Marty’s world operates at the same frantic, chaotic pace.
One of the film’s most surprising aspects is Kevin O’Leary’s appearance. While his casting may initially raise eyebrows, his performance fits the film’s slightly surreal tone. O’Leary brings an unexpected confidence and strangeness to the role, adding to the movie’s offbeat atmosphere without overwhelming the story or distracting from the central performances.
That said, Marty Supreme is not without its major flaws. The opening credits are a particularly odd creative choice, setting a tone that may confuse rather than intrigue some viewers. The film is also quite long, and its pacing can feel uneven. Certain moments linger longer than necessary, and the movie occasionally seems more interested in generating chaos than maintaining focus.
Still, these issues are intentional. Safdie’s filmmaking style welcomes discomfort, excess, and unpredictability, and Marty Supreme fully commits to that vision. The film rarely takes the easy route, even when doing so might make it more accessible.
Visually, the film matches its restless energy. Safdie’s direction favours tight framing, constant motion, and a sense of pressure that rarely lets up. The production design captures the era without feeling polished or nostalgic, while the soundtrack adds to the anxious mood rather than softening it. Everything about the film seems designed to keep the audience slightly unsettled, reinforcing its themes of ambition spiralling out of control. It is a demanding watch, but one that rewards patience and attention.
Rating: 8/10
